If photography is one of your hobbies, you may be wondering how to take it to the next level. You’ve studied up on angles and lighting, and you have the best camera money can buy. But it isn’t enough—you want to earn some money doing what you love most.
If this sounds like you, keep reading. This guide will provide invaluable insight about making money from your photography.
Types of Photography
Commercial
A commercial photographer typically takes pictures of products for sale. As a commercial photographer you are essentially a salesperson, using your photography skills to display the item on sale. This means you must learn to understand and appreciate the best features of the product and showcase them in the best way possible.
Types of commercial photography opportunities include real estate, fashion, conventions, and store displays, among many others.
Portrait
Portrait photography is great for those who want to begin making money from their photos. Senior portraits, engagement and family photos are all examples of portrait photography. Begin by asking your neighbors to spread the word that you’re available. You may surprised by the amount of business you can get in your own hometown!
Photojournalism
Photojournalists are in high-demand. Unlike portrait photographers, photojournalists will most likely need some education and experience before beginning their career. Photojournalism includes work on newspapers, magazines, and even websites.
Technical
Technical photographers* are well-paid and in high-demand—and it’s likely you haven’t even considered it as an option. If you have experience in a scientific or technical field, you may be able to work in the field of photomicrography, holograms, lasers, or high-speed photography.
Biomedical photography is another area of technical photography. Hospitals and research institutions will hire people to take pictures of operating room procedures, to be involved in portrait, copy, or field-work, and to assist with other photography-related needs. Nowadays, some schools even offer degrees in biomedical photography.
If this sounds like a dream to you, stay tuned for our next article on different strategies for breaking into these markets!
*For these purposes, the term technical photography includes scientific and industrial photography.
